user
Analyze the given poem and explain why the poet chose certain words or metaphors.

The waves curl gently like a mother's hand


assistant
The poet chose this metaphor to express the caring and protective nature of the ocean. The gentle curling of the waves, like the mother's hand cradling a child, evokes a sense of safety and tenderness. The metaphor conveys both the power and the calming presence of the ocean at the same time.